Te Puke’s No 1 Road has reopened following a major two-year rehabilitation project aimed at improving safety, reducing flooding risks and supporting future growth on one of the town’s busiest transport routes.

The project included the full reconstruction and resurfacing of a 2km section of No 1 Rd, a route that serves orchards, post-harvest businesses, farms, schools, emergency services and residents.

In a statement, Western Bay of Plenty District Council said the work, carried out over the past two years, was designed to improve road safety, reduce flooding risks and prepare the corridor for future growth.

Senior transportation project engineer Jamie Minchington said it was a significant investment in infrastructure for a growing community.

“This area is a key route in Te Puke and is used daily by residents, students and families, emergency services, the kiwifruit industry and many others in our community,” Minchington said.

“It’s critical that both the road and the infrastructure beneath it are fit for purpose and able to meet the demands of current and future growth.”

The upgrade included new concrete road pavement designed to improve durability and long-term performance, with enhanced roadside drainage systems aimed at protecting the road from storm damage and reducing surface flooding.

A section of road near Cannell Farm Drive was lowered and underground services were relocated to accommodate a potential future connection.

Minchington said completing that work as part of the rehabilitation project would help avoid costly disruption and duplication in the future.

“The community can now benefit from a road that is safer, more durable and better suited to everyday traffic, as well as heavy vehicle movements,” he said.

He thanked residents, school families, growers, businesses and road users for their patience during construction.

Council said the project is part of its ongoing programme to maintain and improve transport infrastructure across the Western Bay.

Further improvements are planned, with funding secured from the Te Puke Eastern Community Board to extend the footpath along No 1 Rd.

Board chair Dale Snell said the extension would improve walking connections and safety for residents, students and families.

“The safety of our community is really important to us and we’re pleased to be able to support continued improvements along No 1 Road to provide safer and more connected walking infrastructure,” Snell said.